Is neuromyelitis optica a life-threatening disease?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 35-year-old aunt was suffering from sudden swelling of her legs and feet, her vision was also weakening in both eyes. She got herself checked and the doctor informed her that she was affected with neuromyelitis optica. She is really scared and worried about her health. She used to be very active and was leading a healthy life. How come she got this disease? Is this life-threatening? Can this be treated with any medication or vaccine?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I understand your concern.

NMO is also called neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and Devic disease. It occurs when the body's immune system reacts against its cells. This happens mainly in the optic nerves that connect the retina of the eye with the brain and in the spinal cord. But it sometimes occurs in the brain. There is no cure. However, some medicines and treatments may inhibit future disease flares. The most common drugs that do this are corticosteroids, such as prednisone.

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) can affect your vision, your muscles, and your emotions. It sometimes leads to lasting symptoms or disabilities. But certain devices, lifestyle changes, and therapies can help you live with NMO as well as you can. The latest treatment ULTOMIRIS (Ravulizumab-cwvz) has been approved as the first and only long-acting C5 complement inhibitor for the treatment of adult patients with anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-positive (Ab ) neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.